Meyer keeping squad humble

South Africa head coach Heyneke Meyer is keeping his squad's feet on the ground ahead of facing New Zealand next weekend.

South Africa head coach Heyneke Meyer is keeping his squad's feet on the ground ahead of facing New Zealand next weekend.

The Springboks have produced heavy victories over Argentina and Australia so far in 2013, with Saturday's win in Brisbane their most convincing thus far as they thrashed the Wallabies 38-12.

Looking ahead to next weekend's match against the All Blacks in Auckland, Meyer was already braced for the challenge of taking on the world champions when he addressed the media on Sunday.

"We just need to keep humble because (this) week will be a hell of a challenge," said Meyer.

"I've learned that you just get the game out of the way because the next game is going to be a tough encounter.

"There are still three tough games to come down the line. The world champions are waiting and we just have to be focussed, keep our feet on the ground and focus on this one.

"It's always difficult to play catchup away from home. Our defence was awesome and we spoke about having to win the game without the ball."

Springbok captain Jean de Villers was elated by the efforts of his loose-forward trio in particular against Australia, responding to criticism directed at the trio of Francois Louw, Willem Alberts and Duane Vermeulen by praising their work up front.

"Our loose forwards, people have said they may lack pace but what they bring to the party, I love having them in my team," said de Villiers.

"You need to lay the platform with your forwards and our forwards did that.

"For a team to go forward and to evolve we need to learn from our mistakes. We have learned.

"The composure was there and the guys did what was needed. It was still not a perfect game by a long shot but I thought we used our opportunities better."